Polylactic acid (PLA), also known as polylactide, is a polyester polymerized from lactic acid. Polylactic acid has excellent biodegradability, compatibility and absorbability. Polylactic acid is a non-toxic and non-irritating synthetic polymer material. Its raw material is lactic acid, mainly from the fermentation of starch (such as corn, rice), etc. It can also be obtained from cellulose, kitchen waste or fish waste as raw materials. PLA has a wide range of raw material sources, and the products made from it can be directly composted or incinerated after use, which can ultimately completely reduce CO2 and H2O to meet the requirements of sustainable development.
The good transparency and certain toughness, biocompatibility and heat resistance of PLA are the main reasons for its wide application. In addition, PLA is thermoplastic and can be used in many fields. Products prepared with it, such as packaging materials, fibers, etc., are mainly used in disposable products such as disposable tableware and packaging materials, car doors, floor mats and car seats, etc. Apparel, electrical appliances and medical and health care (orthopaedic internal fixation materials and non-removal surgical sutures, etc.) and other fields.
Compared with traditional petrochemical products, the energy consumption of polylactic acid production process is only 20%~50% of that of petrochemical products, and the carbon dioxide produced is only 50% of that of petrochemical products. Therefore, the development of polylactic acid degradable materials is very necessary to alleviate global environmental and energy problems.